Samsung Galaxy Tab hits UK stores

by11/1/2010 12:33:00 PM

11/1/2010 12:33:00 PM

The Samsung Galaxy Tab has come out as the most credible alternative to the iPad (at least, so far) - and now it's finally available to buy in the UK.

If you've missed it previously, the Galaxy Tab is a 7-inch tablet that offers up a WSVGA (1024x600) TFT screen and runs via the Android 2.2 (Froyo) operating system. It also packs a Cortex A8 1.0GHz processor, 3G connectivity, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth 3.0, a front-facing camera for video calls over 3G, a rear-facing 3-megapixel camera with LED flash for still images and video and the option to run Flash. That last thing is probably the one big selling point it has over Apple tablet.

Just about all the UK networks have indicated they will have it at some point, with example deals ranging from £499.99 at the Carphone Warehouse with a £10 monthly plan on Talk Mobile (including 1GB of data) or £99.99 deal if you are willing to pay £40 per month for two years and 5GB of monthly data. The latter deal is via Three. By and large, the networks, including Orange and Vodafone, are offering the device for £499 if you sign up for a modest monthly deal. Essentially, we're saying shop around, but it all depends on how much you want to lay out upfront. The contracts don't vary much.

Or just sit tight. It seems that there's a Wi-Fi only model on the horizon. A 3G-less Tab is currently going through a series of checks in the US, which makes the likelihood if it hitting the UK too very high.

Cheaper? We suspect so, but right now, there's no details of just how cheap. But if money is tight and you don't intend taking your Tab far, perhaps it's best to wait a little while.